What to expect

[agel]

During a recent conversation with my GP she suggested I consider starting HRT. I’m 46 with some perimenopause symptoms. Night sweats, brain fog, anxiety. I’ve been taking desogesterol for 16 years now continuously so don’t have periods. I’d rather not have them. I’m susceptible to migraines when hormone levels raise/drop. So I’m considering the HRT, the GP mentioned gels or patches. What can I expect to happen if I start them ?

Im 48 and on desogesterol and also dont have periods. I cant have periods because they cause me back and pelvic pain. I have just started HRT. 14 days Progesterone tablets x 2 a day then 14 days off. And oestrogen gel every day. I am still on destrogesol too. No bleeds yet, but have just finished the 14 days on Progesterone tablets so will see what happens.

Do you feel any different?

Every one is different but its common to feel a bit weird for them first few months as the hormones kick in (e.g. tender breasts, headaches, a bit teary). Some of your current symptoms may tail off or go quite quickly. In summary, give it a bit of time. Start with low dosage. I found gel and oral progesterone to be much better than patches because I can adjust the gel down (I know i need minimal estrogen at the moment).

I went from night sweats, utter exhaustion, suicidal PMT and general misery to feeling fine and happy within a couple of weeks, and have continued feeling like a normal person.

I started with Oestrogel and progesterone tablets but switched to a Mirena coil because I didn't want to have to remember to take the tablets and deal with a pretend period. I then changed to patches which are much more convenient than having to apply gel every day.

Don't be afraid to change your dosage up or down if it is not working after a month or so. I quite quickly went up to 100mcg of eostrogen which is the right dose for me.

I've not noticed any difference yet, but its too early to tell.